Finding peace of mind can be difficult, especially when life throws challenges at you. A counselor based in Tacoma can help you by providing guidance and giving you the strength you need to defeat any challenge that comes your way. 

Tacoma is known for being the city of railroads and harbors. No matter what train or ship you take in life, you want to make sure your destination is reached. A counselor can help you with any storms or stops along the way. 

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Robert Jensen

Offering therapy in WA
License: MHP, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Washington with several years of experience working with a number of mental health issues including Depression, anxiety, Trauma, OCD, Bipolar, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Family conflicts, and have worked as a part of crisis outreach team after a natural disaster. I approach everyone that I work with from a space of acceptance, respect, and compassion. Through communication I do my best to create an atmosphere of safety and warmth where my client can feel free to express anything that they may need to express. I approach counseling from a humanistic perspective and include existential analysis, acceptance, and working through Narratives, and utilize behavioral and mindfulness techniques. Every instance of my communication will be individualized and specific to your needs. With this platform you will have access to your "therapy room" 24 hours a day 7 days a week. That is a wonderful thing because as issues happen you have the ability to share what you need to. I will always respond to your messages in as timely a manner as possible. As quickly and as often as schedules permit. I know that the idea of counseling and change can oftentimes be intimidating and so the decision to take this step is one that requires courage and openness. I will be here to support and empower you when you are ready and thank you for the opportunity to share this work with you.

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Dr. Margaret Robertson

Offering therapy in WA
License: DMin,LPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a retired Navy Chaplain with 10 years of enlisted service and 8 years as a chaplain. I retired in 2008 and then worked as a mental health crisis worker and worked in private practice, then I housed homeless Veterans. I have a wide variety of experiences with many different types of people in many different situations. My expertise is in crisis and trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety and severe mental disorders. I am also quite friendly and easy to get to know and help you understand what's going on in your life. I can't say I know everything, but I can say that if I don't know it, I'll do the research to find out. Love research. I have two Master's degrees and a doctorate. My doctorate is also in ministry from Regent University. I have further PhD work in counseling and education from Capella University. So I can honestly say that learning is key to understanding. Of course, one of those is in counseling. I have counseling licenses in two states (Oregon and Washington). My other degree is in ministry. I have worked in ministry and in the secular field which, I believe, gives me a good balance in helping people where they are at. I don't push my beliefs on anyone. It is my understanding that I am to journey with people. I know the answers are there but finding the answers is like taking a journey together and when the answer is found, you are the one who finds it. I am just there to guide and provide some information. You choose the direction. Philosophy and Approach: I believe that everyone can reach an optimum state of health and has the potential to recover from life’s difficulties, and even trauma. I employ an eclectic approach with a strong reliance on person-centered, cognitive-behavioral aspects and the recovery model. Formal Education and Training: I hold a master’s degree in counseling from Liberty University. My major course work included human growth and development with an emphasis on marriage and family counseling, individual counseling; all classes required for a licensed counselor’s certificate in Oregon and Washington. My major at Liberty University was Marriage and Family Therapy. I also hold a Doctor of Ministry from Regent University with major coursework in Clinical Pastoral Education. My undergraduate degree is from the University of Oregon, a Bachelor of Science in Sociology. I abide by the Oregon and Washington Boards Code of Ethics. To maintain my counseling license, I am required to participate in continuing education, taking classes dealing with subjects relevant to this profession. As a client of an Oregon and Washington licensee, you have the following rights: ∗ To expect that a licensee has met the qualifications of training and experience required by state law; ∗ To examine public records maintained by the Board and to have the Board confirm credentials of a licensee; ∗ To obtain a copy of the Code of Ethics; ∗ To report complaints to the Board; ∗ To be informed of the cost of professional services before receiving the services; ∗ To be assured of privacy and confidentiality while receiving services as defined by rule of law, with the following exceptions: 1) Reporting suspected child abuse; 2) Reporting imminent danger to you or others; 3) Reporting information required in court proceedings or by your insurance company, or other relevant agencies; 4) Providing information concerning licensee case consultation or supervision; and 5) Defending claims brought by you against me; ∗ To be free from discrimination because of age, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, national origin, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic status.

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L. Jenae Macnaughton

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA, MBA, LPC
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Life happens; the effects of loss vary; and the impacts of stress/trauma are more ‘normal’ than most people realize. You are not alone; your struggles are real; and your mental wellness is and should be treated with as much vigor as your need for food and shelter. It is natural for our bodies to want to heal themselves; and our human strength and natural behavior is to adapt and evolve. We develop negative coping skills as we adapt to stress/trauma, grief/loss, major life changes/transitions, chronic illness/pain, identity struggles, and relationship conflicts. As these behaviors can be learned through our abilities to adapt and evolve, so can they be unlearned through behavioral health and strengthening (aka counseling). I am a Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist (CAGCS), a Certified Family Trauma Professional (CFTP), Certified in Brainspotting (BSP-C), and formally trained by the IFS Institute in Internal Family Systems (IFS) work (and will continue my journey to certification). I am independently licensed in AK, AR, ME, OR, SD, UT, and WA; and a Child Mental Health Specialist in WA. In addition to the specialties mentioned above, I also have experience and expertise in serving individuals struggling with addiction, chronic and/or terminal illness, adolescents, persons identifying as queer or LGBTQIA2S+, First Responders, Veterans, Government Personnel, Alaskan Native / Native American (AN/NA), and individuals struggling with high conflict situations. With over 23 years in the behavioral health field, I use my clients’ strengths to find natural healing, unique to their needs. I work with clients who may be struggling with trauma and loss/grief. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first few sessions and sustained improvement thereafter. I consider myself a Solution-Focused Therapist (SFT), meaning we focus on finding the strengths and solutions you already have within yourself (often a re-discovery process). I often use techniques such as strengths-based talk therapy, Brainspotting (learn more at www.brainspotting.com), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Psychoeducation; it all depends on your comfort level with each method.

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Laurie Metje

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC, LH61220235
Trauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, eating disorders, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Janel Washington

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hello, thank you so much for checking out my profile. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado working as a psychotherapist. I have practice therapy in both Chicago and Colorado. I have worked in many settings including crisis, emergency room, home and school based care. I have experience working with individuals from elementary school to adulthood. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges and social injustice. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm, friendly, open and collaborative. I believe in creating a therapeutic space that is safe and warm allowing the person to work through emotional concerns and develop skills to help accomplish their goals. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Depending on your needs I will meet you where you are to develop a treatment plan that meets those needs. Thank you for taking the steps to becoming the leader in your own life. If you are ready we can work together to support and empower you to achieve your goals. I look forward to working with you! Janel Washington, LPC

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Edward Schwartz

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Lauren Alfieri

Offering therapy in WA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in Washington with a passion for helping people work through where they feel stuck, engage in healing, and live life authentically and connectedly. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, and life transitions. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I bring compassion and curiosity to sessions and want to find the path that will fit best for you as an individual. I often utilize EMDR (research based therapeutic approach to resolve trauma and difficulties), mindfulness, psychodynamic therapy, and trauma informed therapies in my sessions to take into account all aspects of what it means to be uniquely you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and look forward to helping you find and reach your goals for yourself!

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This is Karee Bohman's avatar and link to their profile

Karee Bohman

Offering therapy in WA
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with experience working with people struggling with their mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phobias, and a history of physical and emotional trauma. I also have provided support to those struggling with substance abuse. I have additional experience working in a skilled nursing facility, long term care settings, and residential settings. Through this, I have provided support to individuals with chronic medical diagnoses, brain injury, and dementia. Along with supporting these individuals, I have also provided support to family, friends, and caregivers for these individuals. As a social worker, I believe in a person-centered approach and collaborating with my clients to meet their goals. I am very open-minded and want my clients to feel comfortable sharing what they are struggling with, without fear of judgment. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. Sometimes we can be our own worse enemy with reaching our goals and need help. I am here to support you to achieve your goals and find a more meaningful life. I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. koichi tanji

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsCoachingADHD
3 years of experience

I am licensed as a counselor and Naturopathic physician in Washington with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with ASD, ADHD, stress and anxiety, coping with screen addictions, family conflicts, & depression. I take holistic approach utilizing my background as Naturopathic physician, Nutritionist and Personal trainer. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is David Jespersen's avatar and link to their profile

David Jespersen

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, depression, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Tacoma

Finding the best therapist close by in Tacoma can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Tacoma. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Tacoma, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Tacoma or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Tacoma area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Tacoma, elsewhere in Pierce, or in the greater state of Washington.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Tacoma area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Tacoma therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Tacoma due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Tacoma may not take health insurance, some in the state of Washington may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Washington you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Tacoma, Washington working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Tacoma above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Tacoma helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Tacoma therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Tacoma therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Tacoma therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in WA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 98407 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Tacoma counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Tacoma licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Tacoma, Washington can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Tacoma has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Tacoma.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Tacoma:

98401, 98402, 98403, 98404, 98405, 98406, 98407, 98408, 98409, 98411, 98412, 98413, 98415, 98416, 98417, 98418, 98419, 98421, 98422, 98444, 98448, 98465, 98471, 98481, 98490

Popular cities near Tacoma, WA

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